Bed bugs have made a major comeback across the United States, and Illinois is no exception. These tiny, blood-sucking insects are a growing problem in several cities in Illinois, leading local officials, pest control experts, and residents to battle back. In 2025, Illinois has seen an uptick in bed bug infestations, sparking concerns in major cities. Here’s a look at five Illinois cities that are facing an increasing bed bug problem and what they are doing to combat the invasion.
1. Chicago
As the largest city in Illinois, Chicago is no stranger to the bed bug epidemic. Chicago has consistently ranked among the top cities in the U.S. for bed bug infestations, with pest control companies reporting a significant increase in calls for bed bug treatment. The city’s dense population, numerous apartment buildings, and high tourist traffic make it an ideal environment for these pests to thrive.
What’s Being Done:
Pest Control Initiatives: Chicago has ramped up its efforts to combat the infestation with more resources dedicated to pest control and prevention.
Public Awareness: Local health departments have launched campaigns to educate residents about recognizing signs of a bed bug infestation, proper preventative measures, and how to handle an infestation.
Landlord Responsibility: Chicago has also placed more emphasis on landlord responsibility, ensuring that property owners are required to address bed bug complaints promptly and professionally.
2. Springfield
Springfield, Illinois, the state capital, is experiencing a rise in bed bug complaints, especially in public housing and older buildings. Bed bugs are notorious for their ability to hide in cracks and crevices, making them particularly difficult to control once they infest a space.
What’s Being Done:
Inspection Programs: Springfield is working closely with pest control experts to conduct regular inspections in multi-family buildings and public housing areas.
Treatment Protocols: The city has partnered with professional pest control companies to implement more efficient and eco-friendly treatment methods, including heat treatments and steam cleaning, to ensure a thorough eradication of bed bugs.
Educational Workshops: The local health department is offering workshops for residents on how to prevent and detect bed bugs, focusing on reducing the spread of these pests.
3. Peoria
Peoria has seen a significant increase in bed bug complaints in recent years, with infestations affecting both private residences and local businesses. Bed bugs are often brought in from infested luggage, second-hand furniture, or shared public spaces, and Peoria’s close proximity to major transportation hubs has made it a target for these pests.
What’s Being Done:
Community Outreach: The Peoria City Health Department is actively engaging with the community to spread awareness and share tips on how to avoid bringing bed bugs into homes and businesses.
Pest Control Partnerships: The city has teamed up with local pest control companies to treat affected buildings and ensure that treatments are carried out properly to prevent future infestations.
Targeted Inspections: Peoria is conducting targeted inspections of hotels, motels, and rental properties to catch infestations early and prevent widespread issues.
4. Rockford
Bed bugs in Rockford, Illinois, have become a serious problem in both residential areas and commercial spaces. The city’s older buildings, combined with high levels of transient activity, have made it a hotspot for bed bug problems. Residents have reported increasing issues with bed bugs in both homes and rental properties.
What’s Being Done:
Treatment Services: Rockford has stepped up efforts to address the growing problem with more funding for pest control services and government-sponsored bed bug treatments for low-income residents.
Bed Bug Legislation: The city has proposed new legislation requiring landlords to disclose any history of bed bug infestations before renting out properties, providing greater transparency for renters.
Public Resources: Rockford has created a resource hub for residents to report infestations, receive advice, and access treatment services.
5. Joliet
Joliet, a growing city in Illinois, is struggling with bed bug infestations in both residential and commercial properties. The influx of people moving to the area has contributed to the spread of these pests. The city has focused on finding innovative solutions to control the problem and reduce the spread of bed bugs in high-traffic areas.
What’s Being Done:
Partnership with Hotels and Motels: Joliet’s local tourism industry has been hit hard by bed bug reports in local hotels and motels. In response, the city has partnered with hospitality businesses to enforce strict bed bug prevention protocols and conduct regular inspections.
Enhanced Treatments: The city is focusing on eco-friendly pest control methods like heat treatments and the use of non-toxic solutions to reduce bed bug populations without harming the environment or residents.
Community Education: Joliet offers community seminars and online resources that provide residents with practical tips on how to check for bed bugs, prevent infestations, and treat them effectively.
The Ongoing Battle Against Bed Bugs
The fight against bed bugs in Illinois cities continues to evolve. As more cities face increasing infestations, the importance of public education, effective pest control methods, and landlord responsibility becomes clearer. By addressing bed bug problems proactively and providing residents with resources and solutions, these Illinois cities are making significant strides in reducing the impact of this pest.
The bed bug invasion in Illinois cities like Chicago, Springfield, Peoria, Rockford, and Joliet has prompted swift action from local authorities, pest control experts, and the community. With a combination of awareness campaigns, stricter regulations, and innovative treatments, these cities are tackling the bed bug problem head-on. For residents, staying informed and taking preventative measures will remain key in the ongoing battle against bed bugs.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[2] https://www.lajaunies.com/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
[3] https://mywaynecountynow.com/insect-invasion-5-illinois-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/
[4] https://nj1015.com/most-bed-bug-infested-cities-in-the-u-s-are-right-next-to-nj/
[5] https://b100quadcities.com/illinois-most-bed-bug-infest-cities-chicago/
